Let’s hear it for some of the bravest and most caring people on Wearside – the firefighters who risk their lives every day.
Today is International Firefighters Day and it honours the sacrifices these heroes make.
In tribute, we found these 11 photos in the Sunderland Echo archives of crews going that extra mile.
Have a look at Chris Smith who marked the 20th anniversary of 9/11 by climbing 110 flights of stairs in 2021.
We also have fundraising Sunderland firefighters doing the coast-to-coast cycle ride in 1999, a crew rescuing a python in 1997 and taking on an Ironman challenge in 2010.
Have a look at Chris Smith who marked the 20th anniversary of 9/11 by climbing 110 flights of stairs in 2021.
5. Eddie's helping hand
Eddie Harrison took on a spot of book reading at Grindon fire station in 2004. Here he is with members of the Broadway Boys Book Club - from left Gary Golightly, Bradley Cooper, Phillip Cooper, Craig Mason, Calum Potts, Lee Wilkinson and Steven Spurrs. Photo: PB
Firefighter Dave Ellison is pictured with Oscar the rescued python in 1997. Left to right are owners Paul Mariner and Lisa Nichols, firefighter Alan Baitey and Sub-officer Keith Reynolds. Photo: Sunderland Echo
A coast-to-coast bike ride beckoned in 1999 for firefighters (left to right) Rod Anderson, Dave Ellison, Sub Officer Gordon Metcalf, Billy Langton, Station Officer Mick Redfearn, Fred Gallagher, Paul Lavender, Dave Watt, and Callum Bark. Photo: Sunderland Echo
Rod Curtis and Kenny Blenkiron did their training together at the start of a 30-year career and finished together at Washington Fire Station 14 years ago. Photo: TY